Rebranding Entrepreneurship in Vocational Education for Sustainable Development in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Abstract

Entrepreneurship education within Nigerian tertiary institutions has long been constrained by outdated curricula, deep-rooted societal stigmatisation of vocational training, inadequate infrastructure, and a widening disconnect between academic preparation and real-world economic demands. This article examines the imperative of rebranding entrepreneurship in vocational education as a strategic pathway for sustainable national development. Drawing on human capital theory, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and a broad body of empirical and policy literature, the paper argues that a holistic rebranding of vocational entrepreneurship education—encompassing curriculum reform, institutional repositioning, digital integration, policy advocacy, and public perception change—is both urgent and achievable. Evidence from global best practices, including Germany's dual apprenticeship system and Rwanda's TVET transformation, is examined alongside Nigerian-specific research to yield actionable recommendations for policymakers, educational administrators, industry stakeholders, and educators